GST credit in Canada: what it is called now, how much it pays and when
The GST credit became the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit in July 2026. See 2026-27 maximums, payment dates, eligibility and provincial add-ons.
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Read the full guide: GST Credit Canada: Now the Groceries and Essentials Benefit
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GST credit in Canada: what it is called now, how much it pays and when
The GST credit is still paid, but since July 2026 it has a new name: the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB).
New name since July 2026: Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB).
Maximum, single person (2026-27): $679 a year.
Maximum, couple (2026-27): $890 a year, plus $234 per child.
The GST credit is paid four times a year, in July, October, January and April.
Several provinces pay their own low-income credits in the same quarterly deposit as the federal GST credit, so one deposit can include two amounts.
No. The CRA describes the benefit as tax-free, so you do not report the quarterly deposits as income on your return.
